Yousef Mohamed

What subjects did you study before applying for study at university?

I studied Science diploma BTEC and Mathematics A-level at Sixth form which helped me learn the basics for most of my current modules including Engineering Science.

Were there any challenges affecting your decision to study at university? If so, how did you overcome them?

I was stuck between choosing to start employment or go to university. However, after doing some research and speaking to student ambassadors at Open Days and Applicant Days, I gained a good understanding of the course and the paths it could lead me down. I was able to see the importance of having a degree for my future career.

Why did you choose City St George's?

I chose City St George's as it a well-known university for the quality of its teaching and student life. After reviewing different universities, I found that City St George's is one of the best universities for student-life. I was eager to join societies and there is a range, including cultural, religious, educational and hobby based.

Since starting my studies, I have joined the Robotics Society, Arab Society, Football team, Badminton team and Basketball team. Additionally, I have attended workshops that use VR (virtual reality) for exam stress relaxation

I attended a range of events during induction week to find out the range of activities the Students’ Union had planned for the upcoming weeks, such as the movie nights.

I also chose City St George's as the lecturers are always eager to help. I can email them and meet them during office hours to get support on topics I have misunderstood. They provide 1-1 support. Also, we are arranged personal tutors who can help us with any concerns.

Additionally, our student representatives have weekly meetings with course officers to inform them of any feedback and support we may require and we were able to really see the changes after each term being made. The lecturers and the university actively take our feedback.

How are you funding your studies – did you secure any financial support?

I am receiving funding from student finance. I was able to get a bursary as well as work part-time as a Maths tutor on the weekends. Furthermore, I work as a Student Ambassador on a flexible basis on campus.

What does a typical week at university look like for you?

I have a 4 day schedule where I have 6 lectures and 5 tutorials. I add a minimum of 1-2 hour revision sessions on these days. My friends and I use the classrooms on campus to study as well as the library.

I also attend the Robotics Society meetings on Wednesdays where I have developed my coding skills and learn more about building different types of robots. I am also part of the MedTech society where I have learnt more about the medical devices job market.

Usually on Fridays I plan a day out with my friends around the university and explore the local area.

What have been your favourite module or aspect of your course so far?

Currently the Engineering Design module has been my favourite because we have to work as a team to produce coursework. It has helped me discover new things I can do in the laboratory and in class. For example, we have produced a solar panel.

We have used laboratories throughout the year, which helps me to understand the theory that we have studied. Laboratory sessions are also helpful for when we have to produce reports as part of our assignments.

In our Engineering Design I module, my group and I produced a wind turbine. We soldered the tower together and used a range of equipment to understand the system, including the gearbox and the load it can lift.

What knowledge and skills has your course helped you develop?

I have developed my teamwork skills as I have worked in multiple groups and have worked on my communication skills to ensure that my team members and I can present our project effectively.

I have also built on my time management skills and have been taught how important it is to plan our days and how this is a key skill needed for everyday life. I am now able to plan my study sessions and social life to ensure I am able to follow this schedule to keep up with my studies.

Furthermore, my course has allowed me to open up and speak to people confidently.

What opportunities and experiences has The School of Science & Technology offered you so far?

The School has a range of industry connections such as Engineering Without Borders and IEEE, where we get to be part of exciting projects and internships. I will be going on a summer abroad scheme with Go Global that will take me and other students to India and Vietnam where we will gain valuable engineering experiences.

What opportunities and experiences has the rest of City St George's offered you so far?

We meet our lecturers over pizza to talk about any enquiries about the course and if there is anything we may require support with. I like to attend these meetings as I can speak to the course officer and get advice on a range of topics, including careers.

I also attend Careers Workshops where I have found how I can optimise my CV, cover letter and LinkedIn account.

What are your career plans and how has City St George's prepared you for them?

I am planning to pursue a Mechanical Design engineering career. After attending a range of networking events at City St George's, including the Hackathon, I think that a career within that industry is best suited for me.

I would like to use CAD and 3D printers to design and create new products. I believe that my skills goes towards engineering and thinking outside the box, finding different ways for solutions and calculations.

My degree is preparing me for future technologies and the opportunities that comes with the new developments. I believe my degree will allow me to work in a range of industries within engineering.